Instagram Reels Tips: Best Advice from Content Creators

Instagram Reels have become one of the most powerful tools for content creators, businesses, and influencers to increase visibility and engagement. 

In fact, stats show that Reels have an average reach rate 2x greater than other Instagram post types, making them one of the best ways to grow an audience and build a brand on Instagram. With the platform prioritizing short-form videos, understanding how to create compelling, high-quality Reels can significantly boost the reach of your content.

To help you craft Reels that stand out, Fiverr freelancers share expert tips on everything from scripting to video editing, lighting, and social media marketing engagement strategies.

1. Start with a strong hook

The first few seconds of an Instagram Reel are crucial. Viewers decide almost instantly whether to keep watching or scroll past. A strong hook grabs attention right away so that the viewers stay engaged.

Pvladimir, a video content creator, emphasizes this point with his advice:

“Hook ‘Em Fast: Grab attention in the first few seconds—make ‘em curious!”​

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To achieve this, start your Reel with a bold statement, an intriguing question, or immediate action. Jump straight into something that sparks curiosity or promises value.

2. Optimize your lighting for professional quality

Lighting plays a significant role in making your Reels look professional and visually appealing. Poor lighting can make even high-quality footage look dull and unpolished.

Noman Arshad, a video editor, recommends a three-light setup:

“Make sure you have 3 lights in your setup. A Key light placed at a 45-degree angle from one side. A Rim light to separate you from the background. Finally, just throw in any small RGB or tube light behind you or a panel that will give the final look.”​

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If a professional lighting setup isn’t an option, natural or ring light can dramatically improve video quality without requiring expensive equipment.

3. Keep your edits sharp and engaging

Instagram Reels perform best with quick, dynamic editing that keeps viewers engaged. Tight cuts and smooth transitions help maintain viewers’ attention.

Supun, a video and animation expert, advises:

“When you edit the video, cut the video up to keep no space in the middle. That means no filler words and no awkward pauses. Have zoomed-in and zoomed-out cuts occasionally to keep the flow going.”​

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Editing tools like CapCut, Adobe Premiere Pro, or Instagram’s built-in editor can help refine content by adding smooth transitions, text overlays, and engaging effects.

4. Choose trending music for maximum reach

Instagram’s algorithm boosts Reels with trending sounds, so choosing the right music is key to reaching more viewers.

Edspert Reel, a video content creator, shares:

“Choose the Right Music: Sync cuts to trending tracks for a polished feel.”​

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Using Instagram’s recommended or trending audio can boost your Reel’s visibility and increase engagement. Additionally, matching the music to your content’s vibe and pace strengthens its impact.

5. Add captions for accessibility and engagement

Many Instagram users watch videos without sound. As such, video captions are essential for conveying your message effectively. Captions also improve accessibility for those with hearing impairments.

Lahcen, a video editor, highlights this practice:

“Make sure to cut all unnecessary parts and add captions (positioned just under your chin) to make it easy for viewers to watch you while reading subtitles.”​

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Tools like Descript, CapCut, or Instagram’s text overlay feature can help add engaging, well-placed captions.

6. Use movement, dynamic angles, and effects

A visually static video may lose viewer interest quickly. Adding movement, such as camera pans, close-ups, or scene transitions, makes content more engaging.

Edspert Reel explains:

“Add Movement: Smooth camera pans or transitions, like following a hand gesture, keep it engaging.”​

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Changing camera angles and incorporating dynamic shots makes a Reel visually appealing and helps maintain viewer retention. Adding subtle visual effects can also enhance engagement without overwhelming the viewer.

7. End with a clear call to action (CTA)

Every Reel should guide viewers toward a specific action, whether liking, commenting, following, or visiting a link. A well-placed CTA increases engagement and directs users toward the next step.

Mike V, a video content creator, keeps it simple:

“End with a clear ask.”

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Examples of effective CTAs include:

• Follow for more tips

• Save this Reel for later

• Comment below with your thoughts

Rather than letting viewers scroll past, a compelling CTA encourages them to participate, turning passive watchers into engaged social media followers.

Creating reels that engage and convert

The key to success with Instagram Reels lies in remaining consistent, experimenting, and testing. Testing different styles, formats, and content themes helps refine your approach and find what resonates most with your audience. 

And by employing expert-backed strategies (like the ones mentioned above), your Instagram Reels can become a powerful tool for visibility and engagement. Remember, if needed, you can get more expert insights and proven social media strategies on how to win on Instagram from Fiverr Answers.